Researchers Find 2,500-Year-Old Burial Site With Artifacts From Around the World; Say Was Used by Trade Caravans

In 2023, Israeli authorities announced the discovery of an ancient burial site. The grave was uncovered in the Negev Highlands by archaeologists, stated Arkeonews. The finding gave researchers insights into the importance of Negev Highlands in association with different cultures. Details of excavation and examinations conducted on the site were published in the Journal of the Institute of Archaeology of Tel Aviv University.

As per examinations, the structure was dated back to 2,500 years. Several artifacts were found at the site by archaeologists. These items were found to be from Egypt, southern and northern Arabia, Phoenicia, and southern Europe, which implies a strong cultural interchange between these regions. The items made archaeologists speculate that the burial site was used by trade caravans from places like Yemen, Phoenicia, and Egypt, which went through the Negev Highlands. Experts think the caravans could have been involved in the trade of frankincense, myrrh, or even women.

The concentration of flint artifacts spotted at the site makes it unique, as per Dr. Jacob Vardi, a flint tool expert at the Israel Antiquities Authority. No other site uncovered in Israel has had so many ancient flint tools, the only places where this has been noted are Yemen and Oman. Researchers also noted traces of ochre in many artifacts found at the site. This red substance was put on substances in ancient times, to symbolize blood or for decorative functions. Vardi claimed that the presence of ochre on arrowheads implies that these items were used for religious or cultic functions. 

Researchers also unearthed two tombs from the site. These tombs were dated back to somewhere between the 7th and 5th centuries B.C.E. From the tombs, archaeologists found rare shells, alabaster incense preparation tools, copper and silver jewelry, colorful stone beads, and a Bes-shaped amulet. Bes is an Egyptian goddess, who protected children and women. As for the function of the burial site by trade caravans, researchers are divided into two theories. It could have either been a long-term burial site for several caravans or could have been a mass burial specially created for individuals from a particular caravan, who possibly perished in an attack.

Experts believe the location of the site and the artifacts indicate that the place was important for businessmen and ancient society as a whole. "This is one of the most interesting sites we have encountered. The structures and variety of finds indicate that the Negev was not merely a passage for international travel but a vibrant meeting place for merchants and cultures," Dr. Martin David Pasternak, Excavation director on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority,  and senior researcher Dr. Tali Erickson-Gini of the Israel Antiquities Authority stated.

Certain special artifacts including the Bes-shaped amulet imply that the people who were buried in the tomb were possibly women. This also backs the claim made by many researchers that women were being trafficked through these trade caravans. Historical records from Minaeans highlight that women were purchased from places like Gaza and Egypt for trafficking. Experts also unearthed an inscription from Yemen, that listed the name of 30 women purchased from Gaza.

Researchers believe the findings will help them to figure out the cultural and social dynamics in play, two millenniums ago. "This discovery underscores the Negev’s central role in antiquity as an international crossroads and a cultural meeting point. It allows us to connect with significant historical moments of those who traversed this desert centuries ago. Multi-disciplinary research will enhance our understanding of the cultural and economic dynamics in the region thousands of years ago," Eli Escusido, Director of the  Israel Antiquities Authority stated.